New ‘High-Speed’ LTE Network For South Africa

Veteran banker and chair of Wireless Business Solutions (WBS), Paul Harris, has announced a multi-billion rand investment in a new national ‘high-speed LTE-A’ network.

WBS, which owns iBurst, said the new wireless network promises to be an alternative to fibre networks and will bring “super-fast” broadband to consumers and businesses.

The network, which is planned to be rolled out in the next few months, is further set to enable 5G technology and “place South Africa amongst the leaders in the field”.

Harris said the network is intended to help boost South Africa’s economy. He cited a recent World Bank study that said an expansion of broadband access of ten percentage points in developing markets can result in an expansion of GDP by 1.4%.

“Nothing can be gained by sitting on the sidelines. WBS’ investment is a manifestation of its confidence in South Africa and its desire to contribute” said Harris in a statement.